I have never had a ball die. Go into a coma, yes, but a session in intensive care (resurfacing, rejuvenator), is generally enough to bring it back.
I have an original Danger Zone that's still going strong. My original Speed Zone didn't die - but I retired it out of respect, after approx. 1500 or so games, 3 resurfacings, and 2 or 3 rejuvenations.
Of course, I've not had a particle ball die, either - including my ONE columbia ball - that everyone claims should suffer TEC death.
Of course, cleaning them religiously helps a lot.
My Smash/R has a lot of games on it too - I can see the lack of reaction if I don't clean it. But give it a deep cleaning, and it's good to go.